BGU & YOU | Spring 2024

Spring 2024

Cover photo: Cohort III of the Halutz Initiative for Global Leadership at the entrance to the Cyndi and Max Mintzberg Ben-Gurion Research Institute for the Study of Israel and Zionism Building and The Ben-Gurion Archives in Sde Boker Produced by the Department of Publications and Media Relations, Osnat Eitan, Director

Division for Public Affairs and Resource Development. Jeff Kaye, Vice President April 2024 Editor: Elana Chipman

Editorial Staff: Hilla Shenhav, Jeremy Maissel, Ehud Zion Waldoks, Robin Levy-Stevenson Production: Noa Fisherman Photos (unless indicated otherwise): Dani Machlis Design: www.image2u.co.il

Contents

40 Halutz Program

Engages with Negev at a Transformative Moment 42 Seen on Campus: Notable Visitors to BGU This Year 46 Amo a Israel: Love Letters from Argentina 48 Seen on Campus: Solidarity Missions 53 In Memoriam 54 BGU Associates Organizations

14 Pulling Together for the Emergency Response Campaign 16 Notable Contributions 22 Uniting in Solidarity to Rebuild the Negev: Way Forward Campaign Launched at Monte Carlo Global Summit Meeting 26 For the Negev, From the World: News from Our Friends Worldwide

4 From the President 5 From the Chair of the Global Development Committee 6 From the Vice President for Public Affairs and Resource Development 8 Why BGU? Why Now?

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I am proud of our BGU community here in the Negev, which rallied and sprang into almost instantaneous action to provide comfort and support to those around us. Through numerous volunteer and entrepreneurship activities, we took care of so many, filling a void left by the collective paralysis following the attacks. By establishing and hosting aid distribution centers, opening our dormitories to refugees, providing facilities for schools for the displaced, providing day care for our employees' children, and even laundry services to reservists, BGU was felt throughout the Negev. This magazine, BGU & You, is a tribute to you, our global Ben-Gurion University community; This year, more than ever, it is a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience that our community fosters in the Negev. When we gather for our annual Board of Governors meeting in May, let us take time to mourn those we have lost, and at the same time be thankful for all that we have. Let us engage in meaningful reflection and discussion, while taking simple joy in our friendship. Above all, let us pledge anew to look forward, to dream big, and to consider how each of us can play a part in securing a prosperous future for BGU, for a revitalized Negev, and for our beloved State of Israel.

Dear friends,

Now is our time to be together.

The past year has posed unprecedented challenges, starting with Israel’s political upheaval, and then the hideous massacres of October 7, the ensuing war, and the resurgence of antisemitism worldwide. As President of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, it has been both my duty and privilege to lead the University through one of the most challenging periods in Israel’s history. While the experiences have been difficult, they highlighted the extraordinary spirit and resilience of our BGU family – a source of endless gratitude for me. I continue to be incredibly heartened by how we, here in the Negev, in Beer-Sheva, felt the solidarity and support of our worldwide family. My communications with you over the past half year have given me strength and comfort. Despite facing your own challenges, you continued to bolster our partnership, in words and deeds. Your commitment has been instrumental in the success of our emergency campaign, while remaining focused on our ongoing global development campaign. Your overwhelmingly generous response to the emergency campaign enabled us to take care of our students and employees, those who served bravely in the reserves, and those traumatized by the events of October 7, and take proactive measures to support the broader community and contribute to the national effort in these testing times.

Together, we are capable of remarkable achievements.

Prof. Daniel Chamovitz President

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then, the founding members of the global development group have formed life-long friendships. We believe that the more we work with people from all over the world, the better we understand what faces Israel, and the more likely we are to discover universal values and new ways forward. Ben-Gurion University is dedicated to educating students who will have the perspectives and tools to change our world for the better. Our diverse student body – women and men, Jews and Arabs, non-Jews and Jews – live in a community that encourages people to understand the differences between them. They study in outstanding academic classes, participate in groundbreaking research, hold internships with world class companies, and do volunteer work in Beer-Sheva and throughout the Negev. Two years ago, BGU began the quiet phase of a ten year Global Development Campaign to raise one billion dollars that would ensure we have the financial resources to continue and expand our excellence in teaching and research, as well as our unique role in developing the Negev. We’re on the way to success. In spring 2024, as I write this letter, we have raised close to 400 million dollars. If you are reading about us for the first time and would like to play a constructive role in moving BGU, the Negev and Israel from a dark present to a bright future, we welcome you to join us. Together, from the Negev, we can change the world, just as David Ben-Gurion predicted.

Dear friends,

Since we met in May 2023, our world has changed dramatically. It’s safe to say that we are not the same people we were last May. Israel is not the same country it was last year. Life in Jewish communities throughout the world has changed. Yet, in the face of tremendous adversity, BGU’s global community is expanding and meeting important milestones. I give heartfelt thanks to all of you who are actively involved in our global work. In this time of suffering and uncertainty, I want to emphasize how much we admire our Israeli colleagues and friends for their courage, stamina, and focus on the future. Together, we face immense challenges: to bring the hostages home, to help Israelis return to some semblance of regular life, to rebuild the Negev, to deal with increased antisemitism throughout the world, and to return to our commitment to “Tikkun Olam” – repairing the world – which teaches us that our task is to leave the world a better place than when we entered it. Improving the world means focusing on the future. Four years ago, as BGU celebrated its 50th anniversary, the University formed the Global Development Committee to engage people from all over the world in BGU’s future. We wanted to learn from each other, and to incorporate ideas from every country. Since

With thanks,

Toni Young Chair, Global Development Committee

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This sense of unity empowers us to achieve remarkable feats, such as the Emergency Response Campaign which allowed us to rapidly regroup and provide support to the people of BGU, and the wider Negev community. Despite challenges, we persevered, rescheduling the Global Campaign summit to January and continuing with the Halutz program amidst uncertainty. The dedication and enthusiasm of our community, both old and new, underscore our unwavering commitment to our mission. Looking ahead, we can be optimistic about the future, buoyed by the sense of duty and dedication of an oft-maligned younger generation. Their ideological commitment and sense of obligation spurred them to shoulder much of the responsibility for the current war effort. This spirit of initiative and selflessness is evident in the actions of our students and volunteers, reflecting the ethos of our University. At BGU, we are more than just a place of education and research; we are a movement. Our University embodies a spirit of activism and engagement, inspiring all who are part of our global family to make a difference in the world. As we navigate the challenges ahead, let us remember that we are stronger together. Our global family is a source of strength, resilience, and inspiration. Together, we will continue to thrive, making a meaningful impact on our community and the world. I encourage you to be in touch and to visit the University. I can be reached at jeffkaye@bgu.ac.il or +972-50-226-1206.

Dear friends,

Recent years have tested our resolve like never before. From the onset of the global Covid-19 pandemic, through an unprecedented period of political and civil unrest in Israel, and now the horrific Hamas terrorist attack, war in Gaza, and alarming rise in global antisemitism, we have faced adversity with unity and determination. Our global family has been our pillar of strength, embodying the true spirit of family and enabling us to persevere through these crises. What makes the BGU family unique is our relevance to the world around us. In every situation, we find a role to play, guided by a sense of responsibility instilled by David Ben-Gurion's vision for the University. We navigate uncertainty with initiative and proactivity, embodying the University's enduring commitment to excellence in all circumstances. Our global family spans continents, yet regardless of our geographic diversity, we are bound by a common purpose and shared values. This interconnectedness enriches our perspectives and strengthens our collective resolve. During this time of crisis, we have made communication a priority, ensuring that our global family remains informed and connected. President Chamovitz’s updates providing news and insights were a testament to this commitment, especially in the first few days after the attack. This open dialogue fosters a sense of togetherness and solidarity, distinguishing our university community.

Yours sincerely,

Jeff Kaye Vice President for Public Affairs and Resource Development

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Many leaders of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev’s worldwide associates have long-standing, even multi-generational, relationships with the University. Others have joined the BGU global family more recently. Yet, as we all know, the situation in Israel is forever dynamic, and supporting an Israeli university presents unique challenges regardless. We asked the heads of BGU’s associates organizations to consider a fundamental question: “Why BGU?” followed by another pertinent question, given the current volatile and dramatic times for Israel and the Negev: “Why now?” Here are their inspiring responses.

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Andrea Jarach President, BGU Italia The Italian Jewish community is one of the oldest in the world. Today, unfortunately, the Jewish population amounts to only 25-30,000. The events of October 7 signaled the removal of restraints against antisemitism. Obviously, this was mostly concealed under the cloak of anti-Zionism. There were weekly public marches flying Palestinian flags. In schools, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” became the national anthem. Luckily the center-right government of Giorgia Meloni resisted, maintaining a strong official position of alliance with Israel and friendship with the Jewish communities. But calls for the boycott of Israel are becoming stronger and louder across all aspects of life. What is more frightening is the fact that anti-Zionism and calls for boycott are repeated daily in the media, TV, and radio, and obviously the social networks. The universities single Israel out with petitions to boycott all Israeli universities and research. As proud Zionists and Jews we look to Ben-Gurion University as a light in darkness, but we feel hostility everywhere. We still have friends all over the country, as we try to resist the wave.

Gary DeBode Board President, Americans for Ben-Gurion University I first became involved with the organization several years ago, through our ZIN Fellows Leadership Program. I was immediately drawn to the cutting-edge research and the opportunities for the diverse student body at the University. Following the tragic events of October 7, BGU’s research, education and community building have taken on even greater significance. During our recent Solidarity Mission visit, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how BGU students, faculty, and staff are developing innovative solutions to challenges that have arisen from this conflict. From AI-enabled technologies to help manage mental health needs throughout the country, to 3D-printed gear engineered to help protect life-saving medicines required in combat, BGU ingenuity is making a real-time impact. I am incredibly proud of BGU and its remarkable efforts to ensure that Israel emerges from these challenges stronger and more resilient than before.

Marc Lubner President, South African Associates of BGU As President of the South African Associates of Ben-Gurion University, along with our local partners and colleagues, we acknowledge the transformative power of shared knowledge and innovation originating from BGU. Our collaboration with BGU not only holds the promise to enrich South Africa's academic landscape but also has immense potential to advance socio economic development in our communities. Through pioneering research and educational initiatives, BGU offers solutions to our economic challenges, fostering growth and prosperity, particularly at a time of such socio-economic need. Let us embrace this partnership and harness the collective wisdom to create a brighter future for all. Together, we can drive positive change and build thriving societies.

This was the Mandela’s dream over 30 years ago!

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Nava Rubenzadeh President, Association of Argentinian Friends of BGU Despite Argentina's difficult economic situation, we consider our recent contributions to the Emergency Response Campaign to have been highly successful. Additionally, my home is always open for meetings, with a special focus on "Hasbara". We have an agenda that not only prioritizes our university-related tasks but also focuses on clarifying and defending Israel's right to exist in peace, a fundamental requisite for both Ben-Gurion University and the State of Israel. Antisemitism, usually disguised as anti-Israeli sentiment, is not that prevalent in Argentina’s mainstream national, political, or social spheres. However, it can be observed in certain left wing circles and minority groups, who use it in various protests or mobilizations. This trend is exacerbated by the country's ongoing economic challenges.

Mitchell Oelbaum Interim National President, BGU Canada My personal involvement with Ben-Gurion University began my Bar Mitzvah money to the University. While initially non consensual, it didn’t take long for me to embrace this decision wholeheartedly. My grandparents were early founders of the University and my late father, Ronald, also played significant roles over the years. Philanthropy and the University have always been constants in our family. For over 45 years, BGU has been an integral part of my life. Watching its growth and evolution into a world-class institution has been truly remarkable, and I take great pride in my affiliation with BGU. in 1976 when my parents encouraged me to donate

Ann Berger President, Ben-Gurion University Foundation, UK My late father, a Holocaust survivor, had a profound connection to David Ben-Gurion and Sde Boker. The desert held a special significance for him after the hardships he endured, and he believed in BGU’s ability to make the desert bloom. BGU is more than just a university; it embodies the best of Israel. What sets it apart is not only its academic excellence, but also the enthusiasm of people who live and work there for everything happening on campus. The energy at BGU is palpable, creating a unique sense of excitement. Visiting BGU always feels like coming home.

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Valentine and Philippe Mauchard Dumont Co-Presidents, Belgians for BGU

to Israel in January, we were struck by the sense of resilience and hope among our friends, both in Belgium and in Israel. It was a confusingly good feeling, a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, there is strength in unity. The one-sided and naive reactions of many in the Western world have only served to strengthen our resolve. As one of our non-Jewish friends in Brussels remarked, those who care for us will continue to support us, no matter what. Now more than ever, we must support and promote the work of Ben-Gurion University. Now more than ever, supporting BGU is a way to do good for ourselves and for the world. In the words of the scholar Hillel, "If not now, when?"

In the aftermath of the horrors of October 7, we feel more than ever that it is NOW that matters the most. Now more than ever, we feel a close bond to Israel and the Zionist project. Now more than ever, we feel that every Jew should embody the spirit of Israel, and vice versa. We prevail when we are together. And that is probably ultimately what those who dislike Israelis and Jews find objectionable: we stay strong no matter what, especially when we are together, and we keep looking forward. No matter what. Despite the incomprehensible nature of the ongoing conflict, the resilience of those most affected is an immense source of inspiration. During our visit

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Jacobo Mekler Waisburd President, Mexican Association of Friends of BGU Ben-Gurion University serves as my anchor, offering me an authentic connection to Israel and the Israeli experience. Despite being thousands of kilometers away, I feel my connection to the Jewish people most strongly through my involvement with Ben-Gurion University. Unfortunately, this connection has recently brought me much pain and sadness, as I share in the loss and suffering of all Israelis, and particularly poignantly through what has happened to the BGU community. My family has been committed to supporting Israel for generations, both in words and deeds. I have taken upon myself to lead the Mexican Friends of BGU because I believe that I can make a difference by introducing the groundbreaking research at the University and its central role in advancing, and now, rebuilding the Negev, to both the Jewish and non Jewish communities in Mexico.

Lionel Halpérin President, Swiss Friends of BGU I often describe Ben-Gurion University as a family legacy. My grandfather, Vladimir Halpérin, played a role in the University’s formative years in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Following in his footsteps, my father established the Swiss Friends of Ben-Gurion University and chaired it for 25 years, achieving remarkable success. For decades, the Swiss Friends have been among the most effective supporters of BGU, particularly considering the size of the region’s population. My decision to become involved with BGU was not only to uphold our family tradition but also because of my personal experience at the University, when I was still a student and my father sent me to attend the Board of Governors meetings, where I gained firsthand insight into the University's impact and potential. Anyone who has visited BGU can attest that the campus’s atmosphere, and the University’s unique role in the region are compelling reasons to get involved.

Danièle Bidermann President, BGU France We are gathered around a lighthouse in the desert. The desert is the Negev. The lighthouse is Ben-Gurion University, named after the man who decided to build an Oxford in the sand. Every day, one could fill a newspaper solely with the scientific discoveries coming out of university laboratories, particularly those of Ben-Gurion University. And the solutions arise from the desert, just like the plants grown among the rocks by the pioneers. As the poet Edmond Jabès, who wrote extensively about the desert, said: " I came from the desert as one comes from beyond memory ." Since October 7, when the war between Hamas and Israel began, BGU has become an exemplar of a new Zionism. It took the University only a few hours to understand that in the face of chaos, knowledge, intelligence, and turning sadness into strength were necessary. BGU embodies the values of the new Zionism of resilience.

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Pulling Together for the Emergency

Response Campaign

In the wake of the October 7 attack, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev faced a severe test of its resilience. Despite initial shock, the University has persevered, buoyed by the overwhelming support and genuine concern from our friends worldwide. Hundreds of donors, large and small, from over a dozen countries, moved from concern to action, contributing generously to our Emergency Response Campaign. Thanks to this generosity, the campaign raised over $12 million, enabling BGU to take immediate action and provide crucial and timely assistance. Almost immediately following the attack, the University mobilized to address the diverse needs of its community and the wider Negev region. The University reached out

to support those students most in need through special grants: those serving in the reserves and students living near Gaza. At one point, there were 6,500 BGU students and staff doing reserve duty, and the Reservists Support Office was expanded to help them transition back to civilian life and return to campus. The Psychological Services Unit was bolstered significantly. BGU was also able to make the transition back to the classroom as smooth as possible for reservist students: the University recorded and made courses accessible remotely, established an online learning support center, and increased the number of second semester and summer courses, essentially running a full cycle of courses twice. Returning reservists were offered mentoring,

tutoring, study skills workshops, test preparation, the ability to defer exams and assignment deadlines, and more – all to ensure that they can keep up with their classmates and complete their degrees on time. BGU also assisted employees by establishing a daycare facility for their children, a resilience center to provide immediate initial psychological assistance to the entire BGU community, and implemented a range of additional supportive initiatives, including providing grants to those evacuated from their homes. BGU's spirit and commitment to the wider community remain strong, thanks to our supporters worldwide and the initiative and drive of student and staff volunteers here at home.

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Overall Emergency Response Expenditures * (NIS)

Support for Students

NIS 40,881,000 (USD 11,049,000)

Academic Support

Support for Staff & Faculty

19,922,000

Eilat Response IT Support

16,650,000

1,794,000

1,490,000

Country USA Canada

1,025,000

5,235,169 2,225,524 1,788,309

Israel

UK

268,161 247,340 184,346 150,000 103,150 27,100 18,856

Latin America

France

USD 12,257,285

Liechtenstein Switzerland

Russian Speakers

Emergency Response Contributions by Country * (USD) *Figures include donations/expenditures up until January 2024

Belgium Germany

6,290 2,741

Italy

A4BGU – reserve funds

2,000,000 12,257,285

Total (USD)

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The past year has been one of uncertainty and upheaval, which significantly impacted the BGU community. But thanks to the heartfelt generosity of our friends and supporters – both old and new – it has also been a deeply inspiring period. With the help of our friends around the world, we were able to respond quickly and decisively to meet the diverse needs of our community. This heartwarming demonstration of solidarity is most noteworthy. Your support continues to galvanize us. We know that together, we will emerge from these challenging times stronger than ever. In addition to generously contributing to our emergency response efforts, our committed supporters also advanced BGU's long-term goals with donations to myriad projects at the University, profoundly influencing BGU’s trajectory and shaping its future along with the future of the State of Israel.

With a truly transformative gift to BGU as part of the Way Forward Campaign, Sylvan and Margaret Adams are instrumental in the University's efforts to strengthen the Negev. Enabling BGU's leadership role in revitalizing the region at this critical time, they are making David Ben-Gurion's vision for the Negev a reality. The funds are earmarked to execute an extensive plan aimed at advancing education and campus life at BGU, while rebuilding and strengthening the South. Just as their support of the Sylvan Adams Sports Center set a new standard for sports and recreation at the University, this gift will be a gamechanger, enhancing life at BGU and in the Negev for generations to come. In 2022, Sylvan Adams was awarded an honorary doctorate from BGU in recognition of his outstanding Israel advocacy and achievements.

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The Fonds Social Juif Unifié , through FSJU Israel , provided funding for the Aliyah to Academia Program, increasing access to higher education among new immigrants, along with vital support for reservists enrolled in BGU's pre-academic programs, enabling them to perform their national duties without sacrificing their dream of pursuing an academic degree. The Jewish United Fund of Chicago 's generous grant to support BGU's emergency psychological response efforts has greatly enhanced the University's ability to provide psychological services and emotional support to students in need. Their partnership is enabling the recruitment of additional psychologists and interns and the provision of therapeutic services vital to our students' recovery, resilience, and success in academia. Funds provided by the Estate of Friedrich Turtel of Israel are being used to award scholarships to students in need, a group which has grown in number in these challenging times. The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust 's support of BGU's emergency and security needs has significantly boosted the University's rapid emergency response capabilities. With this grant, the Trust will help ensure the safety and resilience of the entire University community for years to come.

A gift from Teodoro (Teddy) Goldberg of Mexico provides support for Prof. Nadav Shashar's research on coral reef restoration. Although integral to marine life in Israel’s southernmost region and prized bastions of biodiversity, Israel's coral reefs are in a state of decline. With Teddy Goldberg's help, Prof. Shashar's team is exploring enhanced coral restoration methods on a laboratory scale and at sea, aiming to reverse the trend of decline and enable marine habitats around the world to thrive. Keren Kayemeth Le'Israel 's support of the Aliyah to Academia Program is contributing to the academic achievement and absorption of new immigrants. With this gift, KKL is partnering with BGU to ensure that Israel's newest immigrants have a strong educational foundation upon which to build their lives in Israel. The Kennedy Leigh Charitable Trust has strengthened BGU with its support of the Community Resilience Project, which addresses students' need for psychological services and housing assistance. Given the scope of this emergency, our students' need for this type of aid is greater than ever, and support from the Trust will help facilitate their recovery and ability to move forward.

The state-of-the-art Guzik Center for Advanced Microscopy was established with a generous donation from the Guzik Foundation . The Center's specialized equipment will take BGU's research in numerous domains to new heights. The Foundation also made a generous gift to the President’s Discretionary Fund, enabling President Chamovitz to allocate funds where they were needed most after the October 7 attacks. Through the Guzik Foundation, Dr. Nahum Guzik has enabled BGU's growth over the years and contributed to its impact in diverse educational and scientific fields. Dr. Guzik was awarded an honorary doctorate from BGU in 2014 in recognition of his outstanding philanthropy and revolutionary technological innovations in the disk drive industry. Toni Young has committed to a generous lead gift for the Way Forward Campaign, as she serves as Global Development Chair for the campaign. Her leadership and support have advanced the University in countless ways over the years, and she has always been a source of inspiration and positivity. Toni was awarded an honorary doctorate from BGU in 2019 in recognition of her support of Israel and the American Jewish community and the many leadership roles she has held to advance the causes she holds dear.

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The Joseph S. & Caroline Gruss Life Monument Fund established the 'First Generation to the Academy' scholarship program, a new initiative that opens the door to higher education at BGU to students from the periphery whose parents do not have an academic degree. Such students are underrepresented at Israeli universities where they constitute just 30% of the student population. The program provides three-year scholarships and guidance to ensure that students receive the assistance and support needed to succeed in academia. By increasing access to higher education, the Fund is enabling these students to fulfill their potential, while fueling the country's advancement. The Inge Weinberg Guttman, RN Chair in Pediatric Nursing was established with a bequest from Prof. Egon Guttman, z"l . This gift, which will advance pediatric nursing research at BGU and the practice of pediatric nursing more widely, will both recognize the expertise of the chair's incumbent and honor Inge Weinberg Guttman in perpetuity.

Notable

Contributions

Carol and Harry Saal pledged a meaningful five-year gift to the Ben-Gurion Annual Fund, providing support where it is needed most at BGU. The Saals are dedicated supporters of BGU, advancing areas ranging from cybersecurity to faculty recruitment and the American Associates Village at Sde Boker. Federation CJA is building resilience at BGU and beyond, with emergency grants supporting the mental health interventions of the Duet Center, the innovative applied research of the AI for Social Welfare Lab, and a project initiated by the School of Public Health aimed at enhancing Israeli coexistence through simulation-based learning. Federation CJA's support has also advanced the study of placemaking at BGU, enhancing the Negev and the lives of its residents.

Delta Galil Industries Ltd . has pledged its support of an innovative long-term program for students from the Ethiopian community, increasing access to higher education among a population underrepresented in Israel's institutions of higher learning. This gift will open the door to opportunity, contributing to students' personal growth, professional development, improved socio-economic status, and more.

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Photo: Shlomi Znati

A generous gift from Dr. Saul Unter , including a portion as a charitable bequest, will name the Saul Unter Gate. The gate, located on BGU’s Marcus Family Campus, was previously known as the Ilanot Gate. Dr. Unter's support of the University has spanned decades, and the naming of the gate in his honor pays tribute to his ongoing commitment to BGU. A significant bequest from Gisella Modiano, z"l was designated for the President's Discretionary Fund, allowing Prof. Chamovitz to advance important projects at the University. With leadership and support from Dovi Frances , BGU has established the new Institute for Excellence in Cyber and Artificial Intelligence, a comprehensive framework for extra-academic studies in AI and cybersecurity. Committed to advancing the INSTITUTE, Dovi Frances is seeking philanthropic partners to ensure its success in leveraging and expanding BGU's expertise and positioning the University as a world leader in these critical domains.

Notable

Contributions

Heksherim Research Institute for Jewish and Israeli Literature and Culture provides a space for contemplation, processing trauma, creative expression, narration, documentation, and steps toward recovery in the aftermath of the devastating events. The Foundation's continued support of the Mandel Social Leadership MBA Program is cultivating the leadership Israel needs to flourish in the years ahead. With the leadership and support of Miriam Roland , a partnership was forged between BGU and Montreal's Concordia University. This gift, which fosters collaboration between researchers at the two institutions, will contribute to the solutions needed to address climate change and sustainability in general and urban sustainability in particular.

The American Friends of the Russian Jewish Congress and the World Jewish Congress have provided critical support to the Aliyah to Academia Program. This program enables Russian speaking immigrants to pursue their academic aspirations and build their lives in Israel following the conflict in Ukraine. The Congresses' assistance provides a pathway for successful aliyah for the program's participants. A significant gift from the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Foundation-Israel in support of the new Windows Program is rekindling the intellectual and creative powers of those who were traumatized on October 7. This novel project initiated by the

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Hilda Namm, z”l included a generous bequest to BGU in her will, which is supporting homeland security research at the University. Hilda and Manfred were longtime BGU supporters, contributing funds for diabetes and robotics research, scholarships, and more. Melinda Goldrich is providing funding for the renovation of Studio Positive, a student-run fitness studio on BGU’s Marcus Family Campus. She is also supporting Prof. Amit Gross’ water research in Sde Boker and Prof. Nadav Shashar’s coral reef research in Eilat with generous gifts allocated toward research funding. These gifts reflect her dedication to our students' well-being and commitment to advancing the University's research in diverse domains. The Kirsh Foundation 's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and empowerment through education is reflected in their generous support of the Bedouin Managerial Leadership Training Program at the Guilford Glazer Faculty of Business and Management. This program addresses the underrepresentation of Bedouin men and women in management creating a large cohort of capable and well-educated managerial leaders. In maximizing their potential, the program will also enable social mobility, bridge social gaps, and promote tolerance and coexistence. positions and MBA degree programs, with the aim of

Rochelle Etingin, z”l provided meaningful funding for Prof. Alon Monsonego’s Alzheimer’s research and supported many areas at BGU as a benefactor and leader over the years, alongside her husband, Maks Etingin, z”l . Rochelle was a devoted friend of BGU, serving as a member of our Board of Governors until her death. Joel Reinstein has committed to a generous gift, which will enable BGU to create a fund that will support study abroad, short-term experiences, degree programs, and additional programs focused on American Jewish students studying at the University. This gift, which will fuel BGU's internationalization efforts, will have great impact, giving participants the experience of a lifetime, infusing the University with their diverse perspectives and energy, and building a much needed pool of informal Israel ambassadors abroad. Chana Stern, z"l left a very generous bequest to BGU to support student scholarships, reflecting her dedication to our students and the value she placed on education. These funds will provide scholarships to numerous BGU students for years to come. Craig Granowitz made a generous contribution to establish a fund for fellowships for students who have made aliyah, served in the Israel Defense Forces, and are attending medical school at BGU. With this gift, he is paying tribute to these heroic immigrants who will further serve their country as much-needed physicians.

The Klarman Family Foundation 's support for the Bridge to Academia Program at the Jusidman Science Center for Youth strengthens participants’ STEM and Hebrew skills and equips them with the skillset, mindset, and tools needed to succeed. This support helps create a brighter future for Bedouin youth by leveraging STEM as a pathway to higher education and a vehicle for excellence and social mobility. Israel Chemicals (ICL Group Ltd.) is paving the way for groundbreaking research and innovation by supporting fellowships for students performing research at the Moshe Nitzan Center for Energy and Sustainability. With this gift, the company is advancing energy and sustainability solutions on the national and international level. Gary DeBode and Archie Gottesman have made a generous gift to support Yazamut 360°, BGU’s entrepreneurship center, which will nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of BGU students, researchers, and faculty members. Yazamut 360° in particular and the University as a whole are strengthened by their commitment, leadership, and support.

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Way Forward Campaign Launched at Monte Carlo Global Summit Meeting Photos: Ekaterina Popova

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Toni Young, Chair of the Global Development Committee Prof. Daniel Chamovitz, President

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, together with its associates organizations around the world, began work on the global campaign over three years ago, in October 2020, with the aim of raising the considerable funds needed for expanding into the North Campus in Beer-Sheva and ensuring the University’s ability to thrive in the future. Conceived to facilitate President Chamovitz’s strategic plan for the University over 10 years, and led by Toni Young, the Global Development Committee last met during the Annual Board of Governors Meeting in May 2023 and was scheduled to meet again in Monte Carlo, Monaco in October. The meeting in Monte Carlo was in many ways an experiment. The idea was for the Committee to meet in a place that would have added value beyond being somewhere convenient for people coming from all around the globe. The Prince of Monaco is famously very involved in sustainability and climate change. We believed we could find a common goal with the greater Monaco community over issues of sustainability and that BGU researchers could offer novel solutions for our shared Mediterranean Sea. We also

wanted to learn more about Monaco’s Jewish community.

Obviously, the October meeting was postponed because of the Hamas attack on October 7, but we were able to reschedule for late January 2024, with a revised agenda. Instead of being about sustainability and climate change, the event focused on where the war in Gaza meets both the BGU global community and the Monaco Jewish community. The revised program ultimately turned out to be valuable beyond our expectations. First, we found a Jewish community that was eager to engage with us: to listen and to be heard after October 7. The Hamas attack precipitated crisis and trauma beyond Israel; it affected Jews all over the world. The Global Summit was probably the first event with an Israeli organization to be held post October 7, and was therefore

The event focused on where the war in Gaza meets both the BGU global community and the Monaco Jewish community.

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Synagogue Edmond J. Safra where the rabbi led prayers for those who died, the hostages, and the wellbeing of the soldiers. Our initial feeling of dissonance at being away from home at a luxury hotel thus eventually gave way to feelings of familiarity and sharing, and perhaps even some respite, especially for the University

especially meaningful. Our friends – both old and new, and especially the Monaco Friends of Israel, were incredibly touched by this dialogue, and there was a sense of solidarity which we didn’t entirely anticipate. We toured the Monaco Jewish community and visited the

leadership who had been immersed in BGU’s war efforts for the past four months. On the second day of the meeting, the lay and professional leadership of our associates organizations from ten different countries around the world returned to the Global Campaign and the future of BGU and the Negev. We heard about the resilience and responsiveness of the University in reacting to the October 7 attack and the developing war, as well as the wider implications across the BGU community and throughout Israel. The swift proactive measures taken at the University were accompanied by the equally decisive efforts of BGU supporters worldwide, whose

The Monte Carlo meeting was also the official launch of the “Way Forward” campaign, conceived as the means of carrying out the strategic plan to transform BGU into a leading institution both at home and abroad.

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generous contributions to the Emergency Response Campaign made that response possible. The Monte Carlo meeting was also the official launch of the Way Forward Campaign, conceived as the means of carrying out the strategic plan to transform BGU into a leading institution at home and abroad. The events following October 7 have made it clear that BGU, as always, has an important responsibility that extends beyond the boundaries of academia.

In his address, “BGU: Leading the Rebuilding of the Negev,” President Chamovitz made clear the need for a strong University to drive the Negev’s recovery and reconstruction. Israeli-Canadian supporter Sylvan Adams' recent transformative donation to the Way Forward Campaign indicated that this was a shared vision. The future – the rebuilding of a thriving, flourishing community in the Negev – depends on a strong Ben-Gurion University.

Sylvan Adams speaking at the Global Summit Synagogue Edmond J. Safra in Monaco. Photo: Association cultuelle israélite de Monaco

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News from our Friends Worldwide

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MAR 2023: Academic Collaboration in Milan Thanks to the initiative of Andrea Jarach, President of BGU Italia, BGU is developing a partnership with Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca. Pictured are Prof. Gabriella Pasi (L) and Prof. Limor Aharonson-Daniel, BGU’s former VP for Global Engagement (R), on a visit to Milan in July 2023. Photo: Andrea Jarach

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Zin Fellows Leadership Program Cohort VI and staff (L - R): Dallas Dishman, Carol Milewich, Peter Yolles, Susan Szafir, Luciano Kolodny, David Schuman, Noah Tratt, Jordan Sarick, Seth Harlem, Shane Stein, Benjamin Diament, Cippy Klionsky, Jason Williamson, Lisa Douglass, Lenore LaVine, Dana Ben Benyamin, Jilli Spear, Efrat Borenstein, Doug Seserman. Seated: Julie Gothard.

US

MAR 2023 Zin VI Gathering in Israel The sixth cohort of Zin Fellows convened for a week-long experience in Israel, marking the culmination of their journey. They explored all three of BGU's campuses, engaging with faculty and administrators to gain insights into the University's innovative research and entrepreneurial spirit, as well as David Ben Gurion’s vision for the University, the Negev, and the country.

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APR 2023 Celebrating the Remarkable 3: Pioneering Medical Science A4BGU’s third annual virtual event was hosted by physician and internet personality Doctor Mike (Dr. Mike Varshavski). The emphasis this time was BGU’s groundbreaking medical research and the new Rachel and Max Javit Medical Simulation and Classroom Building.

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APR 2023: Interim President for BGU Canada Mitchell Oelbaum graciously agreed to return and serve as Interim National President of BGU Canada. L-R: Naomi and Mitchell Oelbaum with BGU Rector Prof. Chaim Hames at the 2022 BOG Meeting

UK

APR 2023 Yom Hazikaron/Yom Ha’atzmaut in London Prof. Oren Shriki of BGU’s Dept. of Cognitive and Brain Sciences delivered a captivating presentation titled “Mind Over Matter: A Swift Introduction to Neurotechnology and its Applications” at a poignant Yom Hazikaron ceremony at South Hampstead Synagogue in London, followed by a lively Yom Ha’atzmaut party.

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MAY 2023: Meeting in Johannesburg L-R: Eli Belotserkovsky, Israel’s Ambassador to South Africa, Tilson Manyoni, SA government official, Marc Lubner, President of the South African Associates of BGU, and Liv Sperber, BGU’s Director of Global Development, English Speakers, met to discuss potential academic cooperation in Johannesburg. Photo: Jonathan Shapiro

Prof. Oren Shriki presenting at South Hampstead Synagogue. Photo: Hannah Allen

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MAY 2023: New French Organization and President BGU announced the the establishment of BGU France and the appointment of Danièle Bidermann as President of BGU France at the 53rd Board of Governors meeting in May 2023. L-R: Sandrine Ohana Adda, former BGU Director of Development for Western Europe, Maggy Camp and Danièle Bidermann at the Sde Boker Campus

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MAY 2023 Gérard Worms Prize Ceremony Anne Lise Worms attended the presentation of the Gérard Worms Prize at the 53rd Board of Governors meeting. The award supports PhD students in research focusing on agriculture in arid lands or solar energy. The 2023 recipients of the prize are Paul Vandôme from L’Institut Agro Montpellier - CIRAD and Klil Noythe from BGU.

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JUN 2023: Israel’s 75th Independence Day celebrations in London L-R: Or Alon and Tzipi Hotovely, Israel’s Ambassador to the UK, with Liv Sperber, BGU Director of Global Development, English Speakers, and Geoffrey Berger of BGUF. Photo: Hannah Allen

L-R: Marie Hélène Bérard, Frédéric Worms, Prof. Noam Weisbrod, Director of the Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Klil Noythe, Paul Vandôme. Photo: BGU staff

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Amis Suisse

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JUN 2023 Gala Dinner in Geneva

The Swiss friends of BGU held a highly successful gala dinner attended by 200 participants from the Geneva Jewish community. The event featured six BGU researchers who showcased their work on topics ranging from chemistry and environmental studies, to entrepreneurship and cyber security. The keynote address was delivered by BGU alumnus Avi Issacharoff, creator of the acclaimed Israeli TV show Fauda .

Swiss Gala. L-R: BGU VP Jeff Kaye, Dr. Uri Roll, Dr. Nina Kamennaya, Arielle Herzog Hadida, Avi Issacharoff, BGU President Prof. Daniel Chamovitz, Michaël Darmon, Lionel Halpérin, President of the Swiss Friends, Prof. Yuval Elovici, and students Avital Wagner, Sarah Winkler, and Shir Levy. Photo: Jeremy Philippe

UK

JUN 2023 Safeguarding Our Digital Age: Homeland Security in the 21st Century Prof. Dan Blumberg was interviewed by British journalist Jonathan Sacerdoti at an event co-hosted by the Ben-Gurion University Foundation and Rosenblatt, a law firm in London. Jonathan Sacerdoti is a member of the inaugural cohort of the Halutz Initiative for Global Leadership and Simon Walton, our co-host from Rosenblatt, is from the second Halutz cohort.

L-R: Hannah Allen, Louis James Zlotowski-Merran, a trustee of BGUF, Simon Walton, Prof. Dan Blumberg, Liv Sperber, Dr. Natalie Lancer, and Jonathan Sacerdoti. Photo: BGUF

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JUN 2023 Gala Main Event in Montreal BGU Canada’s Montreal Chapter held its annual fundraising Gala Main Event, also serving as a tribute to BGU Canada’s CEO, Mark Mendelson z”l, who passed away suddenly in November 2022. Three hundred friends of the University gathered to honor Mark’s memory and raise funds to dedicate the “Beit Mark” student residence in the Student Village on BGU’s North Campus. Attendees also enjoyed a “fire side chat” with i24News US correspondent Mike Wagenheim. JUN 2023 Eyes in the Sky: Monitoring of Earth and Israel's Space Assets Prof. Dan Blumberg, Vice President for Regional and Industrial Development, spoke in his capacity as Chairman of the Israel Space Agency at a partnership event between Ben Gurion University Foundation and South Hampstead Synagogue, London. By popular demand, Prof. Blumberg returned to speak again on “New Borders in our Digital Age: Space, Cyber & Beyond.” UK

Peggi Cohen-Rabinovitch, Montreal Regional President, addresses the Montreal Gala. Photo: Howard Kay

Olivier Abécassis (L) describes his Halutz experiences, interviewed by Michaël Darmon at a BGU France gathering. Photo: Sandrine Ohana Adda

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JUL 2023 New Members for BGU France A BGU France gathering to recruit new members featured President Danièle Bidermann, who spoke about the association’s history and Michaël Darmon, who talked about the crucial role of Ben Gurion University in the future development of the Negev and Israel. Olivier Abécassis shared his experiences of the Halutz program and Sandrine Ohana Adda, then BGU Director of Development for Western Europe, shared her family’s aliyah story and explained why BGU's values resonated with her personal commitment.

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AUG 2023 Promenade in Argentina named for David Ben-Gurion Thanks to an initiative of the Argentinian Friends of BGU, Israeli ambassador to Argentina, Eyal Sela, together with a delegation from the Argentinian Friends led by President Nava Rubinzadeh, and various officials, including the Governor of Entre Ríos, Gustavo Bordet, inaugurated a promenade named after David Ben-Gurion in the town of Villaguay.

Dedication of the David Ben-Gurion Promenade in Entre Ríos, Argentina in August. Photo: Secretaría de Comunicación, Gobierno de Entre Ríos

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Aliyah to Academia graduates with representatives from the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, including Miri Cohen-Adlerstein and Keren Semo, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Jewish Agency, and KKL, including Yigal Yasinov, CEO of KKL Euro-Asia, and Yitzhak Mofsik, BGU Rector Prof. Chaim Hames, Alona Kushnir, Director of Impact Partnerships for Global Russian Speakers, and the program’s director, Prof. Louisa Meshi. Photo: Dani Machlis

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AUG 2023 First Cohort Completes Aliyah to Academia Program BGU celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of the Aliyah to Academia program and the opening of a new cycle, with an even larger cohort of Russian speaking students. Noteworthy donors to this project include KKL, the World Jewish Congress, the Alumni Association for a Better Future, American Friends of the Russian Jewish Congress, and Dr. Ilya Lifshits.

AUG 2023 Advance Screenings of Golda Biopic BGU Canada held sold out movie pre-screenings of the biopic Golda , starring Helen Mirren and Liev Schrieber, in various Canadian cities during the summer of 2023. The pre-screenings took place in Toronto (pictured), Ottawa, Winnipeg, Montreal, and Vancouver. In total, over 1,000 attendees across Canada enjoyed these special events.

L-R: Mitchell and Naomi Oelbaum, David Dulberg, Idit Shamir, Michael Levitt, Fred Waks, Shimmy Wenner & Shani Azulai at the BGU Canada Golda pre-screening in Toronto. Photo: Nate Pavlotski